Saint Petersburg

I arrived in Russia in the Rain. the next day started even better; snow! did not expect that in the beginning of May. together with the wind made it bitterly cold that day. So went inside to visit the hermitage, waiting 30 minutes in line to use the ticket machines in front off the building while trying to protect myself from the cold snow. than walked past an even bigger line of Russians who get a cheaper price but have to proof citizenship. later heard that people with an online ticket (online tickets are more expensive) had to wait in line for 45 min. ones inside you have to hang your jacket and backpack in the wardrobe, as its not allowed inside. it was so crowded there, I have only seen in the subway stations of Delhi! Inside the museum I got pleasantly surprised in the form off an golden peacock clock witch is an center piece off the museum. its enormous! unfortunately it only moves on Wednesdays. but I checked out youtube as soon I was in the hostel. also got an hair cut, finally! should have had a hair cut months ago.

Day 2 was a bit better weather, with some clouds and temperatures around 11/14 degrees. but still an good wind coming from the cold sea. there where 1000s off motorbike riding around and still don't know what the occasion was. at a certain point the where all driving along the main road under police blockade from all other roads. kept watching for 30 minutes after I got bored and went on with my city walk. I do know the preparations for the liberation day are in full affect. ( 9 may) banners everywhere, old army trucks displays and driving around squares and sort. there also building a stage in front of the hermitage.

fun fact these 2 days together I walked 43,9 km, according to the step counter in my phone. so decided to take the metro 'home' the last day. these station ly very deep and are reached by a long escalator. up 89 meters deep. the few stations I visited were not as decorated as I saw in Moscow a couple of years back, but there are as I am told very nice ones.